An interlocking directorate is a term used to describe a situation where a single individual serves as a board member for multiple companies. This practice is often seen as a conflict of interest, as the individual may be more likely to make decisions that benefit all companies rather than just one. However, there are other terms commonly used to describe this type of practice, including cross-directorship, multi-board governance, and intersecting directorates. Regardless of the term used, interlocking directorates can have significant impacts on the companies involved and can create ethical questions surrounding the decision-making process.